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Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Let's Hear it for Hummus!

Over the past decade or so, hummus, a
once-obscure Middle Eastern garbanzo bean dip, has become one of the most
popular dishes in the United States. Whether you are at a backyard barbecue, a
baby shower, or an upscale eatery, you are almost certain to come into contact
with at least one hummus-inspired appetizer or entree. It’s no wonder- not only
is hummus relatively simple to make at home, but it also has a surprisingly
high number of health benefits. Here are a few facts you should know before you
make hummus a staple in your diet.

It’s a great source of protein. People who prefer plant-based protein in their diet will be happy
to know that hummus is a particularly protein-rich food. Vegetarians and vegans
can use hummus as one of their primary sources of protein and rest assured that
they are getting enough of the essential building block that improves the
overall health of our skin, bone, muscle and blood.

It can help lower cholesterol. If you are on a low-cholesterol diet, or if you simply wish to
live a heart-healthy lifestyle, hummus can be the key. Since hummus’ primary
ingredient is garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, it is a food that can
help keep your heart healthy, as all beans contain nutrients that can help
lower cholesterol. However, make sure to avoid store brands of hummus that are
high in sodium if you are really looking to keep your heart as healthy as
possible.

It can improve bone strength. Since garbanzo beans and tahini, the two main ingredients in
hummus, contain calcium, hummus is a particularly good food choice for
post-menopausal women looking to maintain their bone density and avoid
osteoporosis.

It’s loaded with iron. Chickpeas and tahini (a sesame seed paste) are good sources of
iron, which helps oxygenate red blood cells. Anyone with an iron deficiency
will be happy to know that eating hummus can help combat their anemia and get
the boost in their iron intake that they need.

Have any other fun health facts about hummus?
Please share in the comments section.